A Realization About Parenting

The Context: Watching The West Wing re-runs.

My Quote: "Boy, if I knew then what I know now, I would have busted my ass in second grade and focused on being President."

The Realization: When you have kids I bet that you want more than anything to give them all of your knowledge and experience so that they have the benefit of creating and following their dreams. To give them a head start. Because one day they'll wish that they busted their ass early on. Of course, this only happens later in life. I bet you want more than anything on earth to give you kid that drive and knowledge. But you can't do it. Your child's life and dreams are completely separate and unique to them. Which is neat!

The Caveat: While I can't give my future child all of my experiences to the degree I'd like to... i.e. to a degree that they have the knowledge and drive that I would if I got to go back to second grade (I would rock second grade if I got to do it again!). But it is a big part of my upcoming job as parent to strive for that goal. To pass on what I can without obstructing my child's goals and dreams. Key being to share but not obstruct.